WHW seeking nominations for 2020
From Priest River and Sandpoint to Clark Fork and Sagle and all points in-between and beyond, Bonner County is filled with amazing women.
Each year, Women Honoring Women sets its sights honoring the community’s women who have dedicated themselves to giving back and helping others.
The opportunities to give back in the community are abundant. With literally a few hundred nonprofit agencies in the area, there is a volunteer need that fits virtually every person’s talent. While it is difficult for many to find time to volunteer, for those who do so they typically have no expectation to receive anything in return.
But former Sandpoint Mayor and long-time volunteer Marsha Ogilvie wanted to do something to change that and so, 20 years ago, she formed Women Honoring Women. The organization recognizes and celebrates Women of Wisdom who have done much through volunteerism and leadership to improve the quality of life for others in Bonner County.
Women Honoring Women is an organization committed to recognizing women who, over the course of their lives, have contributed to the betterment of the community through their service and leadership and who have served as inspirational role models in Bonner County. The organization has recognized more than 115 women since 1999.
WHW members said nominees for the honor must be at least 65 years of age, and have have demonstrated a vision for the community and who have achieved their goals through collaboration with others.
Other qualities the committee looks for include women who exhibit a love of learning through the pursuit of knowledge by study or experience. And as a reflection of what founder Marsha Ogilvie’s vision was, a Woman of Wisdom must show a commitment to the Bonner County community and its members as evidenced by the positive impact she has had in areas such as art, music, theatre, dance, sports, education and service.
A Woman of Wisdom also should demonstrate dedicated leadership that results in admiration and respect from others as well as serve as a good role model for others. “She is an inspiration to others and an example for future generations of women,” the group notes. “She faces life’s challenges with grace and courage, and lives with dignity, integrity and honor. ”
Posthumous nominations are accepted.
The selection process begins with written nominations by friends, family, co-workers or neighbors of the candidate. The letters are often heartfelt stories of how women have touched the lives of others through their altruistic actions. While some women receive several nomination letters, other may receive only one. But it is not the number of nominations one receives; it is the story of how they have given back to the community that is important. The letters of nomination should speak directly to how the nominee fits the specific criteria.
The committee meets shortly after the nomination period closes and reads every nomination letter, which is when the nominees are selected.
Do you know of a woman at least 65 years of age who is deserving of the recognition of becoming a Woman of Wisdom? The deadline for nomination letters is quickly approaching.
Please submit your nomination letter postmarked no later than Feb. 28 and mail to Women Honoring Women, 419 Upper Humbird Drive, Sandpoint, ID 83864; or email your nomination to womenhonoringwomen@gmail.com. If you would like to donate to the scholarship fund, you can mail your check to the above address.
The luncheon celebrating 2020 WOWs will be at 11 am, Saturday, May 9, at Pend Oreille Events Center. Tickets must be reserved and paid for by Friday, May 1. Cost is $30. Seating is limited.
Information: email, womenhonoringwomen@gmail.com; or on Facebook, Bonner County Women of Wisdom